Accueil Discover Strolling around our cities and villages Along the Loire, Cher, Loir, Indre and Vienne rivers
The Loire Valley is full of stunning wild landscapes, but that’s not all. Its small towns and villages are full of real cachet and blend perfectly into the natural Loire Valley setting. Discover these unique places, nestled along the Loire and its tributaries.
BRIARE, GIEN, MEUNG-SUR-LOIRE, BEAUGENCY AND AMBOISE: ON THE BANKS OF THE LOIRE
Clara Ferrand
The reputation of Briare‘s riverside heritage is well-established. The magnificent aqueduct is a testament to it, 662 metres long and built in the 19th century with the involvement of Gustave Eiffel. The best way to see this monument is by boat, but you can also cross it by foot or bike for an unbeatable view of the Loire.
In Gien, the Château of Anne de Beaujeu features a brick and stone facade and a museum dedicated to hunting, history and nature in the Loire Valley. The internationally renowned Faïencerie de Gien continues to produce earthenware locally, a testament to French know-how for over 200 years. Learn more at the Museum of the Faïencerie de Gien.
P. Avenet – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
OT des Terres du Val de Loire
In Meung-sur-Loire, take some time to walk around the little streets, lined with timber-frame houses. Follow the Mauves river if you wish to discover the secrets of the ancient mills. You can also head off to explore the huge Château of Meung-sur-Loire. For four centuries, it was the prestigious residence of the Bishop of Orléans. Visit every corner, including the dungeons!
The medieval city of Beaugency is incredibly charming. Don’t miss a visit to the Château of Beaugency, which is dedicated to digital art. You can also discover the Town Hall, home to its famous wall hangings (17th century), admire the César Tower (a 6th century keep) and of course, see the city’s remarkable bridge, the oldest in the Loire.
C. Mouton – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
J.C. Coutand – ADT Touraine
CHINON AND THE VIENNE, LOCHES AND THE INDRE
Nestled along the Vienne river and surrounded by vineyards, Chinon was the birthplace of famous author François Rabelais, and it’s sure to leave a strong impression. Overlooking this City of Art and History, you’ll find the intimidating ramparts of the Fortress of Chinon. Stroll through the historic neighbourhoods and little, winding streets lined with beautiful half-timbered houses.
P. Avenet – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Gillard et Vincent – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
The Royal City of Loches dominates the Indre Valley Discover the charm of this “City of Art and History” as you wander around its cobblestone streets and lanes. There’s no shortage of sights to see, including the royal residence, the intimidating, 37 metre-high keep, the Chancery, the Saint-Antoine Tower and its gallery, the Saint-Ours Collegial Church and the Porte Cordeliers passageway.
MONTRICHARD and quincy ON THE CHER
Montrichard is a fine example of a medieval city, on the banks of the Cher, as shown by its ancient residences and the large château, which is home to a keep. Aboard a canoe, a pedal boat or a traditional boat, take a cruise down the Cher river and enjoy the charm of this little city.
D. Darrault – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
AD2T
Downstream, the small village of Quincy also nestles on the banks of the Cher. Here, Sauvignon Blanc takes pride of place. To discover and taste this wine, which was the first in the Loire Valley to be awarded AOC status in 1936, visit Villa Quincy. A scenographic area, complete with a shop, tells you all about its history and special characteristics.
VENDÔME and chÂteaudun ON THE BANKS OF THE LOIR
A. Veillith – Communauté du Pays de Vendôme
The Loir runs right through Vendôme, which is home to many historic buildings and beautiful gardens. For a journey through the rich heritage of this City of Art and History, you can choose one of two walking tour routes. Just follow the little gold discs on the ground, from monument to monument. Information about each site is provided on signs.
Built on a rocky spur, the architecture of Châteaudun takes you on a journey through the ages. Take a stroll through the streets of the medieval town. From the remains of the ramparts to the rue Saint-Lubin, you’ll be able to admire some beautiful timber-framed and Renaissance houses. Then set off to discover the Château de Châteaudun. Home to Jehan de Dunois, Joan of Arc’s companion, its towering silhouette towers over the river at over 60 metres.
Office de Tourisme de Châteaudun
ARGENTON-SUR-CREUSE AND THE CREUSE RIVER
C. Mouton – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Nicknamed ‘Berry’s little green Venice’, Argenton-sur-Creuse lives up to its name. You’ll fall under the spell of its small houses with colourful galleries lining the river. The old wheel mills are a reminder of the town’s past, which was closely linked to shirt-making, and can be seen at the Musée de la Chemiserie et de l’Élégance Masculine.
